Residents in Arlington and those living at the edge of Dalworthington Gardens might want to keep their windows closed on the night of September 4-5, as both cities have scheduled targeted ground spraying to combat the West Nile Virus. This decision came after confirmed cases of mosquito samples tested positive for the virus, according to the City of Arlington.
The areas to be targeted include Stagetrail Drive at U.S. Highway 287 in Arlington and Hemingsfords Court at South Bowen Road, which brushes up against the edge of Dalworthington Gardens. Spraying will occur from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. on both days, weather permitting, to swiftly reduce the population of virus-carrying mosquitoes. City officials say the spray will be a water-based permethrin product, which has a low environmental footprint, but that residents with chemical sensitivities may want to take precautions.
The cities have been vigilant in their response to early signs of WNV, with ongoing trapping and the use of larvicide in strategic locations. In addition, crews have worked to mitigate potential breeding grounds by draining standing water, a prime nursery for the mosquito larvae. Simple preventative measures are also being advocated; dressing in long sleeves and pants, using DEET-based repellents, and eliminating standing water around homes are all recommended actions for residents to protect themselves.
